Best Sites to Track Options Prices and Volume in Real Time
Options trading success depends heavily on timing, price accuracy, and volume visibility. Whether you’re a beginner or advanced trader, using the right tools to track options prices and volume in real time is essential for spotting setups and managing risk.
This post highlights the best free and paid websites to monitor options chains, volume, and price action.
Why Track Options Prices and Volume?
- Price: Know the real-time bid/ask and last traded prices
- Volume: Spot interest and liquidity in specific strikes
- Open Interest (OI): See where traders are positioned
- Unusual Activity: Find large trades, sweeps, and block orders
Top Sites to Track Options Prices & Volume
1. Thinkorswim by TD Ameritrade (Free with account)
- Real-time options chain, Greeks, OI, and volume
- Scanners and alerts built in
- Depth of market and Analyze tab
Best For: Active and professional traders
2. Barchart.com (Free and Premium)
- Unusual options activity screener
- Volume leaders, IV Rank, earnings filter
- Real-time options quotes with charts
Best For: Simple research and daily ideas
3. Market Chameleon (Freemium)
- Implied volatility + volume filters
- Unusual volume alerts
- Historical volume/OI analysis
Best For: Strategy-based scanning
4. Optionsonar (Premium)
- Live feed of block orders and sweeps
- Tracks large trades by institutions
- Breakdown of call/put ratios and market sentiment
Best For: Options flow and momentum plays
5. Nasdaq.com Options Chain (Free)
- Clean interface
- Shows last price, bid/ask, volume, and OI
- Simple and fast access
Best For: Beginners and quick checks
Key Features to Compare
| Platform | Real-Time Quotes | Volume Alerts | Strategy Filters | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thinkorswim | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Advanced | Free |
| Barchart | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Limited | ⚠️ Basic | Free / Premium |
| Market Chameleon | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Freemium |
| Optionsonar | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Limited | Paid |
| Nasdaq.com | ⚠️ Delayed | ❌ No | ❌ No | Free |
FAQs
1. What’s the best free site to check options prices and volume?
Thinkorswim and Barchart are top free choices for retail traders.
2. How can I spot unusual options activity?
Use scanners like Market Chameleon or Optionsonar for real-time alerts.
3. Can I use these tools for spreads and multi-leg trades?
Yes, Thinkorswim and Market Chameleon support strategy breakdowns.
4. Is volume more important than open interest?
Volume shows current day activity, while OI shows existing positions—both are important.
5. Are these tools mobile-friendly?
Most platforms offer mobile apps or responsive websites for tracking on the go.
